Foxglove Seed Mix

• HOW TO GROW
• FAST FACTS
• REVIEWS

Sowing: Direct sow in spring after the last frost, mixing the fine Digitalis Purpurea seed with sand in order to distribute it evenly. Cover it very thinly by scattering soil on top, and water lightly to avoid disturbing the foxglove flower seeds. Germination should take place within 3-4 weeks with a soil temperature of 65-70 degrees F. Thin or transplant seedlings.

Growing: This plant prefers light, moist soil and partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture. It prefers consistently moist soil that drains well, since soggy soil can cause disease. Water well especially in dry periods; a layer of mulch may help conserve moisture. In its first year of growth, foxglove will develop a low rosette of thick leaves; the flowering stalk will come in the second year. If the foliage becomes infected with powdery mildew or leaf spot, begin treatment immediately since this can damage the entire plant; either remove the infected leaves or apply a safe fungicide. Insects such as aphids, slugs, and Japanese beetles also tend to target this plant. Since a single plant can produce up to two million seeds, they will firmly establish themselves as perennials and can be rather invasive if left to themselves. The wilted flower stalks can be removed to prevent this, or the young seedlings can easily be transplanted elsewhere. This plant makes an excellent background plant because of its height, and attracts bees and hummingbirds as well as resisting deer and rabbits.

Harvesting: For fresh flowers, cut long stems of flowers that have just opened and place them in water immediately; strip the leaves that will fall below the water. Handle carefully, since this entire plant is poisonous to humans and animals and can be fatal if ingested.

Seed Saving: Watch the developing Digitalis Purpurea seed heads carefully, since they will split and release their seeds when fully ripe. As soon as the seed head can easily be opened to reveal ripe brown seed, it is ready to harvest. Remove the entire stalk or individual heads as they ripen, shaking out the seed. Store the cleaned foxglove seeds in a cool, dry place.

Common Names: Common Foxglove, Purple Foxglove, Finger Flower, Fairy Glove

Latin Name: Digitalis purpurea

Species Origin: Europe

Type: Garden Flowers

Life Cycle: Biennial, Perennial

USDA Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast

Seeds per Ounce: 300,000

Stratification: No Stratification

Germination Ease: No Stratification

Sunlight: Part Sun, Shade

Height: 48 Inches

Color: Mixed, White, Cream, Pink, Purple

Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer

Uses: Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant